Perceptions and knowledge in men's involvement in prostate cancer screening decisions

Background: Because of the benefit-risk ratio, the French health authorities recommend that patients make an informed choice concerning prostate cancer screening. The aim of this study was to investigate men's decision process. The process was explored by assessing information-seeking behavior, knowledge on prostate cancer, and men's involvement in screening decisions. Methods: Nineteen men aged 50 to 75 years old were included in the study in 2018. Semi structured face-to-face interviews were performed. Interviews were audio-recorded and then transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis was performed. Results: In some cases, men's knowledge about prostate anatomy, prostate physiology, and prostate cancer screening modalities (procedure and risks) was poor. Moreover, despite international recommendations about shared decision-making, several GPs (General Practitioner) prescribed prostate cancer screening without discussing the matter with their patients. Conclusion: French men should receive better information so that they can make an informed choice about prostate cancer screening and share the decision with their GP.